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Interview Practice

Getting started can be the hardest part.

Set yourself up for success. Give yourself time to prepare and build confidence before your professional healthcare school interviews.

Ready to Begin Interview Preparation?

Discover and explore strategies, resources, and practical tips available to 91吃瓜网 students and recent alumni preparing for professional healthcare school interviews below.

Phase 1

Self-Reflect and Write First.

  • Step 1: Find Your Thoughts Before Your Words

    Start with Reflection, Not Rehearsal.

    • Start with journaling. Choose an interview topic or question and thoughtfully reflect on how you might approach your response.
    • Use your journal as a private writing space to explore your experiences, ideas, and examples before practicing them aloud.
    • This can help you organize your thoughts, strengthen your responses, and build confidence as you continue practicing both oral and written interview questions.
    • Your initial response does not need to be polished or scripted. The goal is simply to give yourself a thoughtful place to start.
  • Step 2: Build Written Responses Through Topics

    Build your written practice by responding to questions and topics across several areas, such as:

    • Yourself & Your Background. Practice introducing yourself and discussing your experiences, interests, and motivations with these tips.
      • Keep your response focused and relevant rather than recounting your entire personal history.
      • Consider your experiences through your current, more developed perspective.
      • Move beyond simply describing what you have done by reflecting on why an experience mattered and what you learned from it.
    • Community & Society. Develop your ability to thoughtfully consider issues at the local, state, national, and global levels, including:
      • Social systems and their impact on individuals and communities.
      • Historical and current events.
      • Policies, laws, and regulations and their potential implications for society.
      • The ways communities, institutions, and society function and interact.
    • Health Care System & Your Profession. Practice discussing topics related to:
      • The health care system and challenges affecting health and health care.
      • Your intended health profession and its role within the broader health care system.
      • Current industry issues, patient experiences, and real-world situations healthcare professionals encounter in practice.

    • Situational Judgment & Behavioral Questions. Consider how you would navigate scenarios involving:

      • Collaboration, teamwork, and group dynamics.
      • Ethical questions, competing priorities, or difficult dilemmas.
      • Oral or written communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving.
      • Empathy, cultural awareness, self-awareness, and understanding different perspectives.
      • Adaptability, resilience, receiving feedback, and opportunities for growth.

    Tips: Keep the Purpose of the Preparation in Perspective.

    • 驰辞耻鈥檙别 not expected to be a healthcare expert yet. Admissions committees know you are applying to become a healthcare professional, not that you already are one. Don鈥檛 spend significant time studying advanced medications, procedures, treatments, or clinical concepts that require professional training.
    • Preparation should therefore focus on your reasoning, communication, judgment, experiences, values, and ability to reflect, rather than memorizing specialized medical information or procedures.
    • If you already have health care training, certifications, or direct patient-care experience, you can certainly draw upon those experiences when relevant. Focus on the broader lessons, perspectives, and skills you developed and how they inform your approach to the topic questions.
  • Step 3: STAR+ Healthcare Interview Questions, Topics & Digital Worksheets

    Practice Writing with a Variety of Interview Question Topics.

    Before advancing to Phase II & III (practice with peers or mock interviews), utilize the:

    • STAR+ healthcare interview preparation method & free downloadable worksheets!
    • Identify several meaningful experiences and practice organizing each into a clear story.
    • The goal is not to memorize or script responses, but to become comfortable reflecting on your experiences and communicating what you learned from them.
    • Note: You might be asked to describe a specific time when you demonstrated specific qualities or such as teamwork, communication, leadership, adaptability, resilience, ethical judgment, conflict resolution, or self-awareness.听You are welcome to expand the STAR+ method with additional competencies, if helpful.

    Need additional Healthcare Interview Practice Questions?

  • Step 4: Practice Your Words

    Practice Aloud. Build Comfort. Find Your Voice.

    Next, shift from written reflection to speaking your responses aloud so you can become more comfortable expressing your ideas naturally and confidently.

    • Read or state the practice question aloud, ideally while looking in a mirror.
    • Respond as though you are speaking directly to an interviewer.
    • Speaking aloud can help you identify your natural wording, strengthen your confidence, and become more comfortable discussing a range of topics.
    • As your confidence grows, you can also record yourself or move onto advanced practice with recording and feedback after practicing with peers.

Phase 2

Practice with Peer Interactions and Personal Progression.

  • Start with "Coffee" / Talks

    Practice Through Conversation.

    • Set aside time for an informal conversation (coffee or talk). Consider one-on-one or in a small group with fellow 91吃瓜网 pre-health/pre-med students, a trusted mentor, or supportive peers.
    • Discuss a few of the interview topics or questions you are preparing for and share your professional goals for context.
    • Invite honest, constructive feedback on how clearly and authentically you communicate your experiences, motivations, and goals.
    • If your peer(s) are also preparing for healthcare professional school interviews, make the conversation reciprocal by sharing thoughtful feedback with each other.
  • Connect with Peers for Practice

    Connect with Peers. Practice Together. Build Confidence.

    Find and connect with 91吃瓜网 students pursuing similar healthcare professions, including:

    • Pre-Health/Pre-Medical student organizations and related campus groups.
    • Classmates and peers pursuing your intended healthcare field. Connect with peers you've meet through shared prerequisite courses or in your residential hall who are also pursing a healthcare pathway.
    • 91吃瓜网 HPAO events and programs, which provide opportunities to engage with the broader pre-health/med student community during fall/spring.
  • "Coffee" / Talk Goals

    Use Informal 鈥淐offee / Talk 鈥� Sessions to Practice:

    • Navigating a variety of topics naturally without relying on scripted or rehearsed answers.
    • Listening actively and responding thoughtfully to what others share.
    • Staying present and engaged throughout the conversation.
    • Thinking on your feet when faced with unexpected questions or perspectives.
    • Giving and receiving honest, constructive feedback with peers.
    • Reflecting together afterward on verbal and non-verbal communication, including clarity, tone, pacing, body language, and overall presence.
  • Tips

    Broaden Your Practice Circle.

    • Practice beyond your immediate family and your close circle. While their support can be valuable, they may be less likely to offer candid, professionally focused feedback.
    • Over time, practice with a variety of peers, mentors, and trusted individuals to gain different perspectives and become comfortable communicating with a range of people.

Phase 3

Practice with Professional Attire & Constructive Feedback.

  • Practice / "Mock" Interview Goals

    Practice Like it鈥檚 the Real Thing.

    • Prepare like it's game day. Dress for practice sessions as you would for the actual interview. Need professional attire? 91吃瓜网鈥檚 Commodore Closet offers interview-ready clothing at no cost and is available 24/7 in Sarratt, Room 110.
    • Have an interview preparation routine before the actual interview. (Examples: getting dressed, pre-interview routine and preparation, arriving early, etc.)
    • Be comfortable in the actual feeling of a live / real professional interview.
    • Keep your poise and confidence. Be humble, remain present and let your authentic self come through.
    • Practice unknown, blind-questions.
    • Improve your comfort to navigate interview questions you were not expecting or you have never been asked.
    • Review your own recorded mock interviews to improve your self-awareness and/or seek constructive feedback with your interview partner when practicing periodically with peers.
  • Mock / Practice Interview Options

    Practice & Record. Review & Refine.

    As your confidence grows, use free, 24/7 online interview practice tool tool to record your responses and review feedback. This can be especially helpful after practicing conversationally with peers, allowing you to further refine your communication, delivery, and overall interview presence.

    Record yourself practicing with 91吃瓜网鈥檚 迟辞辞濒.听

    • New to Big Interview?
      • Watch .
      • Review .听
    • Big Interview Set-Up:
      • New users can create an account, build a practice interview, and search the question library听for medical, dental, and other health professions鈥搑elated interview questions.
      • Before your first recording, set up Big Interview鈥檚 AI Feedback tool and complete the Eye Tracking Calibration to ensure accurate feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement.
      • Practice as if it were the actual interview.
      • After saving your recording(s), find your results under Interviews 鈫� My Videos.
    • Post Recording Steps:
      • Afterward, review your recording(s). Once your review has processed, select your bronze, silver, or gold medal to view personalized Big Interview feedback and coaching.听
      • Take notes on both your verbal communication: clarity, organization, pacing, and tone. Additionally pay attention to your non-verbal communication as well. Eye contact, facial expressions, posture, and overall presence.
      • Use your observations to refine and strengthen your approach, focusing on authentic responses rather than memorizing or scripting a 鈥減erfect鈥� answer.

    Need additional Healthcare Interview Practice Questions?

  • Additional Communication Practice Options

    Make Every Conversation an Opportunity to Practice.

    • Consider a communications studies course to enhance your comfort, practice and feedback with general communication skills.
    • Join (a non-profit international organization) and utilize FREE, online Gain more confidence and comfort in your general verbal and non-verbal professional communication skills. Learn to deliver a speech.
    • 91吃瓜网 student organizations provide professional communication opportunities to network, meet or practice professional communication opportunities in student group environments.
    • 91吃瓜网 Career Services Events: campus events that provide opportunities to network, interview, or participate in other campus-wide professional events.
    • Practice everyday when any opportunity presents itself in any setting.
      • Strike up a conversation with a stranger, introduce yourself professionally.
      • If the opportunity presents itself or is appropriate, practice your 鈥渆levator pitch鈥� to answer the question 鈥渢ell me about yourself鈥� or other general questions asked after introducing yourself.

Phase 4

Before the Interview Tips.

  • When Does The Interview Begin?

    Professionalism Starts with the First Interaction.

    Your interview experience begins with your first point of contact with the professional school, not simply when the formal interview begins. Every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impression while remaining professional and authentic.

    This may include interactions with:

    • Admissions staff through email or other pre or post-interview communication.
    • Admissions team members during requested follow-up phone calls.
    • Receptionists, parking attendants, administrative staff, and other individuals you encounter upon arrival.
    • Current professional school students, faculty, staff, and admissions representatives.
    • Fellow applicants and other guests participating in the interview experience.

    Tip: Extend the same courtesy, respect, and professionalism to everyone you encounter throughout the admissions process.

  • How Long Are Professional School Interviews?

    Interview Days Vary. Prepare for the Entire Experience.

    Your interview experience may last a few hours, a half-day, or most of the day. They vary by school and interview format. Plan accordingly and carefully review the schedule provided by your admissions invitation.

    In addition to the interview itself, your day might include:

    • A general welcome / interview orientation.
    • Individual, panel, group, or other interview sessions.
    • A campus or facilities tour.
    • Presentations from admissions staff, faculty, or current students.
    • Financial aid or student support resources / presentations.
    • Breakfast or lunch (depends on interview length). These meals may provide opportunities to interact with current students, fellow applicants, admissions staff, faculty, or other program representatives.

    Tips:

    • Consider the entire experience part of your interview day.
    • Maintain a professional, respectful, and engaged presence with everyone you encounter. From the moment you arrive on campus or enter the parking area until you leave the professional school campus at the end of the day.
  • Communication & Professionalism Tips

    Communication Tips:

    • Always make a professional impression. All communication matters.
    • Set up your phone voicemail and email account professionally in advance.
    • Ensure your phone number listed on your application is set-up with a professional, personalized voicemail greeting. Occasionally admissions team members may directly call you during the admissions process.
    • Thoroughly review the entire admissions interview invitation. Do they offer an optional pre-interview meet and greet event? If so, plan to attend and be prepared to make a professional impression.

    Professionalism Tips:

  • Professional Attire

    Dress with Confidence. Prepare with Intention.

    • Dress professionally. Choose polished, professional attire appropriate for a healthcare professional school interview. 91吃瓜网鈥檚 Commodore Closet offers students free professional clothing and helpful resources, open 24/7 in Sarratt 110.
    • Choose comfortable, professional shoes. Campus interviews may involve considerable walking, so consider closed-toe dress shoes with a low or no heel that you can comfortably wear throughout the day.
    • Consider a basic wrist watch. A simple analog or digital watch can help you keep track of time. Avoid smartwatches or other connected devices, as some programs may restrict electronic devices during interview activities.
    • Check your fit ahead of time. Make sure your clothing and shoes fit comfortably and allow you to move with ease. Feeling comfortable can help you focus on the interview rather than your attire.
    • Practice your interview-day routine. Wear your complete outfit beforehand. Plan your morning routine, travel, and other logistics in advance. Familiarity can help your interview day begin smoothly and with less stress.
  • Pre-Travel Checklist Tips

    Plan Ahead. Pack Smart. Prepare for the Unexpected.

    • Know where you鈥檙e going. Review your interview instructions, location, arrival time, parking, and other travel details in advance.
    • Keep directions accessible. Save or print important directions and instructions in case Wi-Fi or GPS service is unavailable.
    • Check the weather. Review the forecast a few days beforehand and plan your attire and travel accordingly.
    • Prepare for the unexpected. Pack backup professional essentials, such as a dress shirt, shoes, or alternate jacket.
    • Arrive early when possible. If traveling the day before, consider visiting the interview location to familiarize yourself with the route, entrance, parking, and surrounding area.
    • Keep interview essentials with you when flying. Carry on your professional attire, medications, toiletries, and other necessities in case checked luggage is delayed or lost.
    • Flying the same day? Consider traveling in your interview attire if your schedule may not allow adequate time to change before arrival.
  • What To Bring

    Bring Less. Prepare and Ask thoughtfully.

    • In person interview? Bring a simple padfolio. Include a notepad, professional pen for taking notes and store your small essentials (car key, etc.), when appropriate.
    • Prepare thoughtful questions in advance and place in your padfolio. Identify questions specific to the program. Ask them when the admissions team provides an appropriate opportunity, if offered. Avoid questions easily answered on the program鈥檚 website.
    • Need ideas for questions? Utilize the as a starting point, then tailor your questions to each program.
    • Evaluate your fit, too. Use your questions and observations to determine whether the program aligns with your goals, priorities, and preferences. especially as you may ultimately be considering more than one acceptance.
  • Virtual / Online Interview Tips

    Same Professionalism. Different Setting.

    Virtual interviews require the same preparation and professionalism as in-person interviews, with added attention to your technology and environment. Be sure to:

    • Review your interview instructions carefully. Confirm the virtual platform, format, timing (time-zone), and any technology or program-specific requirements in advance.
    • Prepare your interview space. Choose a private, quiet, well-lit location with a professional background and minimal distractions or interruptions. Avoid rooms with lights that automatically turn off.
    • Dress professionally. Wear the same professional attire you would choose for an in-person interview.
    • Test everything in advance. One to two days before your interview, test your computer, webcam, microphone, internet connection, lighting, camera position, and how your attire appears on screen.
    • Complete a final technology check. 91吃瓜网 30 minutes before your scheduled interview, confirm your device, internet connection, audio, video, and interview platform are working properly.
    • Have a backup plan. Identify a secondary device, internet connection, computer charger chord, and/or quiet location you can use if an unexpected technical issue occurs.
    • Practice communicating on camera. Become comfortable maintaining appropriate eye contact, listening attentively, and conveying your enthusiasm and presence through a virtual format.
    • Prepare for specialized formats. If your admissions process includes Casper or another virtual assessment, review the the professional school鈥檚 specific instructions.

Phase 5: Interview Day

Tips, Approaches and Resources.

  • Arrival

    Arrive Ready: Comfortable, Focused and Organized.

    • Eat before you arrive. Avoid beginning your interview on an empty stomach. Depending on the schedule and format, it may be several hours before you have an opportunity to eat鈥攐r a meal may not be included.
    • Hydrate and prepare for a full day. Know the routines that help you stay comfortable, alert, and focused. Establish healthy eating, hydration, sleep, and other personal routines well before interview day so you can maintain your energy and composure throughout the experience.
    • Arrive early. Allow additional time for traffic, parking, finding the correct location, and other unexpected delays. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your designated arrival time, unless the program provides different instructions.
    • Turn off / silence your phone. Leave it in your car/travel bag. Want to know what time it is? Wear a听产补蝉颈肠听(non-advanced technology) watch.
    • Keep what you carry simple.听Leave your phone, keys and other items in your car/travel bag, 别虫肠别辫迟听your:
      • Basic portfolio - with note paper/pen and to store these items:
      • Single, vehicle key.
      • Two forms of听photo identification (suggested: valid driver鈥檚 license, ID or VU student ID).
      • Basic feminine / hygiene item for the day (if necessary).

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  • At Interview

    Be Engaged, Authentic, and Professional.

    • Be yourself. You were invited to interview because the program sees potential in you as a prospective student. Allow your experiences, interests, and personality to come through naturally.
    • Be personable, respectful, and approachable. Treat everyone you encounter with the consideration you would extend to a future colleague, patient, or someone entrusted to your care.
    • Be prepared, not over-rehearsed. Preparation should help you communicate confidently without sounding scripted. Listen carefully, answer questions directly, maintain appropriate eye contact, smile naturally, and remain flexible throughout the conversation.
    • Take notes (when appropriate). Many interview days begin with a welcome or orientation session. If permitted and helpful, take brief notes while remaining attentive and engaged.
    • Ask thoughtful questions. When invited, ask relevant questions that demonstrate genuine interest in the program. Be mindful of the setting, available time, and conversational tone. Avoid overwhelming interviewers or admissions representatives with excessive questions.
    • View fellow interviewers as future colleagues, not competitors. Be welcoming and respectful toward other candidates. Some may become your classmates, colleagues, or members of your future professional community.
    • Engage with others when opportunities arise. Meals, tours, breaks, and other informal portions of the day may provide natural opportunities to interact with students, applicants, faculty, and staff. Participate professionally and authentically without feeling the need to force conversation.

    Tip: You do not need to perform a 鈥減erfect鈥� version of yourself. Focus on being prepared, present, respectful, and genuinely engaged throughout the experience.

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  • Inappropriate Questions - What To Do

    Know What鈥檚 Appropriate & What to Do When it Isn鈥檛.

    • If you encounter an听inexperienced interviewer who asks an inappropriate or illegal questions such as questions referring to relationships/marital status, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, and/or economic background, you can inform the admissions office of your experience after the interview.
    • If you are uncomfortable reporting the questions or behaviors of your interviewer, please contact our office immediately. We can attempt to contact the director of admissions on your behalf.

Phase 6: Post-Interview

After the Interview Tips.

  • Send A Thank You Note

    Say Thank you with Purpose, Not Persistence.

    • Always follow admissions school鈥檚 guidance. Each program may have different expectations for post-interview communication, including whether or how to send a thank you. If expectations are unclear, politely ask at the conclusion of your interview.
    • Consider sending a brief, personalized thank-you within 24 hours, if appropriate. Email is typically an appropriate and timely option. Use the school鈥檚 general admissions email address unless instructed otherwise, rather than contacting individual interviewers, admissions leaders, or the dean directly.
    • Be genuine and specific. Thank your interview team for their time, mention a meaningful takeaway from your conversation or experience, and briefly reaffirm your interest when appropriate.
    • Remain professional in all communication. Be thoughtful, respectful, and patient in any post-interview correspondence.
    • One thank-you is enough. Avoid repeated follow-ups unless the program invites additional communication.
    • Don鈥檛 read into a lack of response. Admissions teams manage many applicants and responsibilities. A lack of response should not be interpreted as a reflection of your interview or candidacy.
  • Make Every Interview a Learning Experience

    Reflect, Learn & Refine. Prepare for What鈥檚 Next.

    • Reflect on your interview experience. Soon after your interview, take time to consider what you learned about yourself, the interview process, and the program.
    • Capture your observations. Use your personal journal to record questions, experiences, or moments you want to remember while they are still fresh.
    • Evaluate your performance thoughtfully. Consider what went well, where you felt confident, and where you encountered challenges.
    • Identify strengths and opportunities for growth. Note specific communication skills, responses, or situations you would like to continue strengthening through additional practice.
    • Apply what you learned to your next interview. Use your reflections to guide future preparation and revisit the Phase 3 resources, as needed.
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  • Check Your Email / Application Account

    Monitor, Don't Obsess.

    • Check your email and application portal regularly for any admissions follow-up communication, ideally every 2鈥�3 business days, for updates regarding your application status.
    • Most admissions committees communicate acceptance offers and other admissions decisions by email or through the application portal.
    • Some programs, however, may choose to personally call accepted applicants with the good news.
    • Make sure the phone number listed on your application is current and that your voicemail is set up with a professional, personalized greeting.
    • Check your voicemail regularly and return any calls from admissions offices in a timely and professional manner.
  • Be Patient

    The Waiting is Part of the Process.

    Please be patient. Often you will have one of three classifications after you interview:

    • Accepted: Admissions will provide you instructions or how to accept (or decline) your offer and timeline.
    • Waitlist: Admissions has not made a final decision. They might want to review additional candidates still interviewing first before they make a final decision. This may take some time before you get a final answer.
    • Denied: Admissions has decided to select other highly qualified candidates. The process for that specific school in this admissions cycle has ended.
  • Important Reminders

    The Process Isn鈥檛 Over Until the Decision is Final.

    • Allow the admissions process to unfold. Avoid contacting the admissions office solely to ask about your application status or position on a waitlist.
    • Be patient while awaiting a final decision. Monitor the communication channels provided by the professional school and wait for official correspondence from the admissions committee.
    • Decision timelines can vary considerably. Offers of admission and denials may be communicated at different points throughout the admissions cycle, sometimes extending until shortly before the incoming class/program begins.
    • Remember that your application remains active until you are notified otherwise. Do not assume an outcome until you receive an official, final decision from the admissions committee.
  • Final Decisions

    If You Are Accepted, Congratulations!

    • Take time to celebrate this important accomplishment!
    • Carefully review your admissions offer, including all instructions, requirements, and deadlines for formally accepting your offer and securing your place in the incoming class.
    • Complete all required next steps by the stated deadlines and continue monitoring communications from the program.
    • Thank any of your mentors for their support in this overall process.

    If You Are Not Accepted, Keep Moving Forward.

    A non-acceptance decision does not have to be the end of your professional school journey. Use this experience as an opportunity to reflect, grow, and determine your next steps.

    • Respond professionally. Consider sending a brief email thanking the admissions committee for considering your candidacy. You may decide to apply to the same program in a future admissions cycle, so leave a positive and professional impression.
    • Continue developing holistically. Finish strong in your remaining 91吃瓜网 academic studies and continue pursuing meaningful academic, professional, service, clinical, research, or other developmental experiences.
    • Reflect on opportunities for growth. Thoughtfully consider areas where you could strengthen your preparation鈥攑ersonally, professionally, and/or academically.
    • Seek constructive feedback when available. If听the program offers feedback to unsuccessful applicants, consider asking what aspects of your candidacy could be strengthened for a future application cycle.
    • Consider your next application strategically. When you feel better prepared, consider reapplying in a future admissions cycle and/or exploring other professional school programs that align well with your interests, experiences, and professional goals.
    • Stay connected organically with your letter writer mentors. If you are certain you will not be enrolling in a healthcare professional school this cycle, maintain your relationships naturally. Keep them updated on your future plans, once appropriate. If you apply in a future cycle, you might need to ask for their support again, including resubmitting their letter of recommendation. Consider requesting an updated letter only if your mentorship or relationship has continued and the letter writer has meaningful new experiences or insights to genuinely add.
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